NEXT year marks 100 years since the World War I Gallipoli landings and Anzac Day commemorations planned at Tea Gardens are set to live up to the occasion.
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In addition to the dawn and main Anzac Day centenary services, an exhibition will be held at Tea Gardens Library between April 13 and May 8. Visitors to the exhibition will be able to discover what life was like in Tea Gardens during the WWI years, as well as what military life was like through viewing maps, photographs, documents and videos.
As a special recognition to the men who signed up from the district, the individual histories of each known soldier who enlisted in the first Australian Imperial Force will feature in the exhibition.
The exhibition is the collective idea and work of members from the Tea Gardens RSL sub-branch, Great Lakes Council, Myall Coast Historical Society, the family history group and community.
Exhibition co-ordinator Norman Webber said the month-long library display would be one of many events and activities to be held next year.
‘‘There will be the exhibition in the library for one month,’’ he said.
‘‘As well as a plaque unveiling with those from the Tea Gardens district who enlisted.
‘‘Cafes on Marine Parade will offer a free Anzac biscuit with every cuppa bought.
‘‘There will be a bit going on.’’
In order to cover all aspects of how WWI impacted on Tea Gardens, any residents with artefacts such as uniforms, letters, documents, medals or other paraphernalia are asked to share them.
Members from the exhibition’s organising committee will be at Tea Gardens Library on November 8 between 10am and 2pm to scan and photograph items.
‘‘There will be members of the Myall historical society, family history group and a medals assessor in attendance to view and discuss all of the items brought to the [library],’’ Mr Webber said.